Demyelinating Diseases

DEMYLINATING DISEASES: List

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common forms of demyelinating diseases. MS is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack itself. It attacks the myelin sheaths in the brain and spinal cord, affecting mobility. MS causes scarring and hardening around the nerves. Symptoms include weak/stiff muscles, twitching and spasms, fatigue, paralysis, and trouble walking or talking.

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s is similar to MS both with similar symptoms, affecting the central nervous system and movement. But Parkinson’s usually develop symptoms around age 60 and above while MS ranges from ages 20-50. With Parkinson’s, the brain cells slowly start to die, making less and less dopamine. Inflammation caused by MS can lead to lesions that cause Parkinson’s. Symptoms include losing control of blinking and smiling, stiff muscles, and loss of other mobility.

Neuromyelitis Optica

Also known as optica spectrum disorder or Devic's disease disorder, this neurogenerative disease is caused when the damages on the central nervous system affect the eye nerves (optic neuritis). Symptoms may include pain in the eyes as well as vision loss.

Transverse Myelitis

This neurogenerative disease occurs when there is an inflammation on the spinal cord. One of the main symptoms may include continuous pain and discomfort in the body. Individuals may also feel coldness, numbness, or even tingling in their body.